So it’s that time of year again and if you have children you know what I mean… Yes, the candy cane hunts, the holiday shows, the search for the perfect tree and that elf… yes the elf that actually makes the moves most days but sometimes he’s “too tired” to make the trek back and forth over night….
Combine all of those seasonal events with the number one question from the grandparents, in-laws and siblings… WHAT DO YOUR KIDS WANT FOR CHRISTMAS? Well in our house, Santa is the one who brings toys and based on the last couple of outfits my sister bought for my kids, we decided to leave the clothing purchases in-house. My wife and I will choose the outfits thanks.
This year we are taking a different approach and offering our loved ones the chance to give a NON-TOY gift! So I started thinking about all of the cool experiences, events, and life enhancing lessons that they can provide for my kids and that we will benefit from in the long run… Of course, first and foremost….
Swim lessons!
Giving a package of swim lessons is a gift that kids and parents alike will enjoy! Swimming is not only fun it is a LIFE skill. Coincidentally, we are also offering a special package on Gift certificates for the holidays. Right now, receive a FREE gift when you purchase a Gift Certificate of $100 or more:
• Get an Njswim drawstring bag with $100 Gift Certificate
• Get an Njswim T-shirt with $200 Gift Certificate
• Get an Njswim T-shirt & Bag with $300 Gift Certificate
Memberships!
Zoo, science museum, children’s museum, family fitness membership, etc. These are particularly great for family gifts! Many young families want to enjoy day outings, but affording them can be a challenge, so give them the gift of a yearly membership.
Subscriptions!
All children enjoy getting things in the mail, right? Encourage their reading by getting them a magazine subscription for something they are interested in! Not only will the kids become excited about a new surprise each month-You are encouraging the life skill of reading.
Family time!
Kids enjoy participating in activities /games with others including their peers and members of their family. Why not spend some time playing a game together for family game night or participating in a family outing, like mini-golfing or horseback riding. These activities not only allow the children to spend time with their parents but they also learn to grow and work with others. We offer an open family swim at our Sparta and Lakeside locations.
Events!
Movie tickets, or tickets to a play, concert or sports event are really exciting! Having an event to look forward to makes the rest of life more enjoyable.
Recipe and Ingredients!
Some kids love cooking with their parents. Baking something special or cooking dinner is an ideal time to spend together and learn life skills. Print out a recipe, purchase all the ingredients and set a date for cooking together.
So if you are like me and really don’t “need” that hot topic gift to be coming in from their special Aunt or another box of Legos on the floor, than consider these items and offer them some fun solutions.
Hope you enjoyed reading this and if you have a few minutes to add some other great ideas, please go for it!
Happy Holidays,
HJ